Earthquake Preparedness

 Emergency Management BC

Ministry of Public Safety and Solicitor General
Provincial Emergency Program

                                                                                                                     

Earthquake Preparedness before, during and after

Earthquakes are common in BC and more than 1,200 are recorded each year across the province.

The coast of BC is considered to be a high-risk earthquake zone. In This region, tectonic plates are moving apart, sliding past one another and colliding. It is the movement of these plates that causes small earthquakes (daily), potentially damaging earthquakes (decades apart), and some of the world's largest earthquakes (centuries apart). Earthquakes strike without warning, so it is important to act now to get prepared.

Before the Shaking Starts

Prepare Your Family

• Know the safe spots in each room-against inside walls, under sturdy tables, desks or archways,
• Know the danger spots-windows, mirrors, hanging objects, fireplaces and tall, unsecured furniture.
• Practice family drills, Physically place yourself in save locations, This is especially important for children. 
• Learn first aid and CPR. 
• Keep a listing of emergency numbers. 
• Prepare a family emergency kit with supplies for at least 72 hours. 

Prepare Your Home

• Learn how to shut off gas, water and electricity.
• Keep breakables or heavy objects on bottom shelves.
• Secure tall heavy furniture which could topple, such as bookcases, china cabinets or wall units.
• Secure the water heater and appliances.
• Secure hanging plants and heavy picture frames or mirrors (especially over beds).
• Put latches on cabinet doors to hold closed during shaking.
• keep flammable or hazardous liquids such as paints, pest sprays or cleaning products in the garage or outside shed.
• Check chimneys, roofs, walls, foundations for structural condition.
• Maintain emergency food, water and other supplies, including flashlight, a portable battery-operated radio, extra batteries, medicines, first aid kit and clothing.

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